Current Weather
Raw METAR
Weather Briefing
VFRChina Lake Naws (Armitage Field) Airport is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with clear skies and 10 SM visibility.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the southwest (220°) at 16 knots with gusts to 24 knots. Runway 21 is favored with a 16-knot headwind and 3-knot crosswind component (gusting to 4 knots crosswind). Student pilots and low-time aviators should exercise caution.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 10 SM. Skies are clear with unlimited ceiling.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 17°C (63°F) with a dewpoint of -12°C, indicating very dry conditions.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 24 hours. The forecast shows a transition between VFR and IFR conditions. Pilots should monitor the forecast closely and have an alternate airport plan. Winds are forecast to reach up to 23 knots during the period. Expect variable wind speeds ranging from 10 to 23 knots. Temporary IFR conditions are forecast between 20:00Z and 22:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
Conditions are favorable for visual flight. The forecast indicates conditions may deteriorate. Ensure you have fuel reserves and a viable alternate airport.
This briefing is generated from real-time METAR and TAF data. Always verify with official sources before flight.
Forecast (TAF)
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Airport Runway Layout
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Heading | Wind Component |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 03/21
Active: 21
|
9,991 ft | 200 ft | PEM | 42° |
↑ 15.8 kt
•
↔ 2.8 kt
10° angle
|
| 08/26 | 7,701 ft | 200 ft | PEM | 90° |
↓ 10.3 kt
•
↔ 12.3 kt
130° angle
|
| 14/32 | 9,011 ft | 200 ft | PEM | 154° |
↑ 6.5 kt
•
↔ 14.6 kt
66° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KNID
7,237 observations | Sep 2025 - Apr 2026Flight Rules Distribution
China Lake Naws (Armitage Field) Airport enjoys predominantly VFR conditions, with visual flight rules prevailing 95.5% of the time. Prevailing winds are from the SW averaging 7.6 knots. Calm conditions occur 26.3% of the time. Temperature extremes range from -4°C to 38°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are October, March, April.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 7,237 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Apr 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
China Lake Naws (Armitage Field) Airport - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About China Lake Naws (Armitage Field) Airport
Overview
China Lake Naws (Armitage Field) Airport serves the Naval Air Weapons Station located in the high desert region of California. Situated at 2283 ft MSL, this medium airport supports military aviation operations with three substantial runways ranging from 7,701 to 9,991 feet in length. The airport is strategically positioned near the western edge of the China Lake basin.
Flying Conditions
Weather conditions at KNID are predominantly VFR, with 93.4% of observations reporting visual flight rules. Prevailing winds from the southwest (225°) average 6.9 knots, with occasional gusts up to 23 knots. Temperature ranges from -4°C to 38°C, creating diverse atmospheric conditions that pilots must consider during flight planning. September through November offer the most consistent VFR weather patterns.
Notable Features
The airport features three parallel-oriented runways with precision equipment marking (PEM), providing multiple landing options. All three runways demonstrate 100% favorable wind alignment, with minimal average crosswind components ranging from 2.9 to 5.4 knots. The high desert environment and elevation of 2283 ft MSL contribute to unique aeronautical characteristics that demand careful preflight preparation.
Approach Considerations
Pilots can expect excellent runway performance with long runway lengths allowing operations for various aircraft types. Visibility averages 9.7 statute miles, with only 0.6% of observations showing conditions below 3SM. Runway 03/21, the longest at 9,991 feet, provides the most extensive operational flexibility. Wind conditions consistently favor all runway configurations, offering predictable approach and landing scenarios.
Data Sources & Accuracy: Airport information sourced from OurAirports.com, a collaborative database of worldwide airport data. Weather data from official aviation weather services including NOAA Aviation Weather Center and international METAR/TAF providers. Information is updated regularly but pilots should always verify current conditions and NOTAMs through official channels before flight operations.
Learn More
Recommended guides based on current conditions at KNID
Official Data Sources
Disclaimer: Data is provided for informational purposes only. Pilots must verify all information through official sources before flight operations. Weather conditions change rapidly; always obtain a current briefing from approved weather services.